2023 Jeep Gladiator Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Troubleshooting Common Issues with the Radiator Fan in Your 2023 Jeep Gladiator and How to Fix Them

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
34% chance it's the
Fan Motor or Clutch
0%
28% chance it's the
Fan Relay or Fuse
0%
23% chance it's the
Temp Sensor or Fan Control Module
0%
15% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2023 Jeep Gladiator radiator fan isn't working are the fan assembly, the fan clutch, or the coolant temperature sensor.
  • Fan Motor or Clutch: A faulty fan motor or a malfunctioning fan clutch can result in inadequate cooling, causing the engine to overheat.
  • Fan Relay or Fuse: A faulty fan relay or blown fuse can prevent the cooling fan from operating, leading to engine overheating.
  • Temp Sensor or Fan Control Module: A faulty temperature sensor or fan control module can result in incorrect readings, causing the engine to overheat or the cooling fan to operate improperly.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2023 Jeep Gladiator radiator fan isn't working?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

Over time serpentine belts stretch, crack, and the ribs that ride on the accessory pulleys being to wear smooth. A squealing noise that increases with engine speed or as engine driven accessories are turned on may be noted. The noise is caused by the belt slipping on the pulleys, insufficiently driving them. Ineffective air conditioning, a battery warning light, or intermittent power steering assist can result from this.

»MORE: Symptoms of a bad serpentine belt

When the radiator fans stop functioning properly, the engine temperature will rise. The spike in temperature will be highest when the vehicle is idling at a stop, but should subside once the vehicle begins moving again.

Additionally, the air conditioner typically won't blow as cold. This is because the air from the radiator fans also blows across the air conditioning condenser, so when the fans fail, both systems suffer.

You'll also usually see the check engine light and notice a drop in fuel economy. It's possible the fan will start making noise if it's failing, as well.

What are the steps to diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2023 Jeep Gladiator?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2023 Jeep Gladiator, begin with the simplest solutions before progressing to more intricate assessments. Start by checking the fuse associated with the radiator fan; a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue that can halt fan operation. If the fuse is intact, move on to inspect the relay that controls the fan, as a malfunctioning relay can prevent the fan from receiving power. Next, test the radiator fan motor itself to ensure it is operational; if it fails to run, replacement may be necessary. Additionally, examine the wiring connected to the fan for any signs of damage or loose connections, as these can disrupt power flow. It’s also crucial to verify the functionality of the coolant temperature sensor, since a faulty sensor may not trigger the fan when needed. Finally, using a diagnostic scanner can help identify any error codes related to the radiator fan system, providing further insight into the problem. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently diagnose and address the issue with your radiator fan.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2023 Jeep Gladiator?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in a 2023 Jeep Gladiator is not working, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. A faulty fan motor is often the primary culprit; if the motor fails, the fan will be unable to cool the radiator, leading to potential overheating. Additionally, a blown fuse can disrupt the power supply to the fan, rendering it inoperative. It's also important to check the relay, as a malfunctioning relay may fail to send the necessary power to the fan motor. Another critical component to inspect is the coolant temperature sensor, which regulates the fan's operation based on engine temperature; if this sensor is defective, it may not activate the fan when needed. Lastly, wiring issues, such as damaged or corroded connections, can prevent the fan from receiving power altogether. By systematically checking these components, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the issue, ensuring the radiator fan operates correctly and maintains optimal engine temperature.

How urgent is it to address the non-working radiator fan in a 2023 Jeep Gladiator?

Addressing a non-working radiator fan in a 2023 Jeep Gladiator is of utmost urgency due to the vital role this component plays in regulating engine temperature. When the radiator fan fails, it can lead to insufficient cooling, which significantly increases the risk of engine overheating. This overheating can cause severe damage to essential engine parts, including the cylinder head gasket and pistons, potentially resulting in costly repairs or even complete engine failure. Moreover, if the engine overheats for an extended period, it may seize, leaving the vehicle inoperable and necessitating extensive repairs or a full engine replacement. Therefore, it is crucial for Jeep Gladiator owners to act swiftly when they notice signs of a malfunctioning radiator fan. Promptly addressing this issue not only helps prevent serious engine damage but also ensures the vehicle operates efficiently and reliably, safeguarding both performance and longevity.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.